It's Splendour week, and if you're heading along, chances are you're putting the final touches on your packing list. However, in the excitement, there'se always a couple of things that you forget that can make all the difference. After all, you're probably thinking about seeing the likes of Childish Gambino, SZA, Tame Impala and Chance The Rapper live, rather than making sure you've got a spare pair of socks. To help out, we've put together a list of Splendour essentials that you can tick off before you go, so that you don't get to Byron and realise you've left something behind.
Your own tent
First cab off the rank is probably the most essential. Having your own tent, and not relying on your mate, will be a lifesaver when you can't find them for whatever reason, or you just wanna have a nap in peace. The bigger the tent the better, as you'll have more space to store stuff/lounge around when acts aren't on. Just make sure it's windproof and waterproof, and you're good to go.
Sunscreen/mosquito repellent
Everyone thinks that because the sun isn't that bright at Splendour that they won't get sunburnt. However, the sun can be a tricky one, and if you're not prepared, you'll be in trouble. Apply a bit of sunscreen before you head out each day, as well as some mosquito repellent, and the elements won't bother you in the slightest.
Sleeping bag and pillows
So you're packing your bag, and space is tight. You're tempted to ditch the pillows. Don't! Having a pillow, rather than a rolled-up jumper, will mean that you sleep well, and have more energy to catch as many live acts as possible. The same goes for a sleeping bag. Get the best sleep you can overnight, so you're ready to tackle the long days ahead of you.
Gumboots
This one seems like a no-brainer, but it's an important one. Gumboots mean that you're not having to get your fave pair of shoes dirty, and when you're spending so much time on your feet throughout the festival, the last thing you want is water getting into your socks and making everything gross. A solid pair of gumboots will be a lifesaver for you, and if you see any puddles you want to jump in, you're sorted.
Portable speaker
A portable speaker is a Splendour essential. While it might seem a bit silly to bring a speaker to a festival with such a killer line-up, not only will a portable speaker help you make friends super easily, but it'll get the party going even before the first band starts for the day. After all, who doesn't love to wake up with some tunes?
Toiletries
They're not exciting, but they're really, really important. Taking a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and roll of toilet paper will make your Splendour experience a much cleaner one, and when you're spending so much time out in the festival grounds, it's nice to be able to come back and feel clean.
Portable charger (or two)
This is a mistake that a lot of people make, but a portable charger can mean the difference between spending the last Sunday of Splendour alone, and getting to hang out with your mates all day. Letting your phone go flat is a festival no-no, but after all, when you're spending so long without a powerpoint to plug into, things happen. Luckily, having a portable charger on hand means you've got your phone ready to go for whenever you need it, and you also won't miss out on taking the perfect Splendour snap.
Printed out set times
While this may seem like overkill, when there's no reception, you'll be thanking past you that you thought of it. Bring a copy of the set times (and a festival map while you're at it) so if your phone dies, you know exactly who you're going to see next. Make sure you've highlighted the acts you want to see, and if you've got a few spare slots, why not check out the bands on earlier in the day that we think you'll love?
A ripper playlist
Let's face it, without a killer playlist for the road trip/flight to Splendour, then you're not going to arrive in the best of moods. It can take a while to get to the Splendour site, and the best way to keep yourself entertained while on the way is some tunes from the bands on the line-up (and a last-minute opportunity to learn the lyrics to some of the songs set to be played over the weekend). Luckily, we've got you sorted. Check out our Splendour roadtrip playlist, and above all, have a killer time!